The Five Metaphors in the Surah An-Nur (35) as the Foundational Principles of Epistemic Formation: A Quranic-Alchemical Approach

Abstract

This study examines the parables presented in verse 35 of Surah An-Nur namely light, the niche, the lamp, the glass, the tree, and the oil — through an illuminating approach that interprets them as symbolic indicators of the foundations of cognitive formation. It views the movement from light to knowledge as a dynamic process that stimulates the intellect toward understanding. The research draws upon key sources in linguistics, Qur’anic exegesis, philosophy, and chemistry to explore the semantic dimensions of these parables and to demonstrate how they function as interconnected stages directly linked to human experience and the construction of an integrated epistemic identity . The study further offers Qur’anic insights with a chemical perspective, particularly in explaining the selection of glass as the chosen metaphor, interpreting this Qur’anic choice as one grounded in wisdom and systemic order. Employing inductive and analytical methods, the research examines interpretations by exegetes and philosophers to identify areas of convergence and divergence. The same methodology is applied to analyzing the chemical composition of glass, its material transformations, properties, and types, in order to deepen the understanding of its symbolic significance within the Qur’anic context.